Atlassian, the company behind popular software tools like Jira, has laid off 150 employees. According to reports, their jobs are being replaced by artificial intelligence (AI). This news comes just months after Atlassian’s billionaire CEO, Mike Cannon-Brookes, defended buying a private jet worth over $75 million.
How Were Employees Informed?
SkyNews Australia reported that the affected employees were told about the layoffs through a pre-recorded video message by the CEO. He delivered the message from his home office while wearing a faded green hoodie.
However, the video didn’t name who was being laid off. Employees had to wait 15 minutes after the video to receive an email confirming their job status.
Their company laptops were blocked immediately, but they will be paid for the next six months.
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Why Did the Company Lay Off Employees?
Atlassian’s other co-founder, Scott Farquhar, defended the layoffs and said that AI is making some jobs more efficient, so fewer people are needed. He added that as AI grows, some parts of the economy will expand, while others will shrink.
What About the Private Jet Controversy?
Earlier this year, CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes faced criticism for buying a private jet, especially since he supports climate change action and promotes solar power projects.
In a LinkedIn post, he explained that he bought the jet mainly for personal safety and to stay close to his family while running a global business from Australia. He said the jet helps him be a “present dad.”
What’s Next?
The layoffs and use of AI have raised questions about job security in the tech industry, especially when company leaders are making expensive personal purchases.
